David Carey Hilderbrand

David Carey Hildebrand, 97, of Kingsport, passed away on April 17, 2026.

Born and raised in Roanoke, Virginia, David attended Virginia Tech before beginning a long and successful career with Eastman Chemical Company, where he dedicated 35 years of service. After retirement he generously gave his time to Habitat for Humanity, volunteering countless hours helping build homes for families in the community. A man of deep faith, David was a member of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church.

David had a lifelong passion for building and construction. He proudly built the home where he and his wife raised their family. David’s favorite place on earth was an A-frame cabin on Boone Lake that he constructed in the early 1960s where he spent the majority of his free time. He also enjoyed traveling—especially annual beach trips—and watching baseball and football.

He was preceded in death by his parents J.R. and Blanche Hildebrand; his beloved wife, Edith Alice Hildebrand; his son, Jimmy Hildebrand; his brother, John Hildebrand and wife Tootie; and his brother-in-law, Robert E. Northrop.

He is survived by his children, Carol Matherly, Vickie Varnon, and Larry Hildebrand; his grandchildren, Josh Matherly, Nicole Trammel, Logan Winegar, Shelby Mullins, Brandon Varnon, and Larry Hildebrand Jr.; several great-grandchildren; sister-in-law Jo Northrop; and several nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held at 1:30 PM on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, with Rev. Scottie Burkhalter officiating. A graveside service will follow at 3:00 PM at East Lawn Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Habitat for Humanity, 100 Greenwood Ln., Kingsport, TN 37663 or Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 800 Broad St., Kingsport, TN 37660.